N3K-C3016Q-40GE

N3K-C3016Q-40GE Overview

The Cisco Nexus 3016Q-40GE is a 1RU, fixed form factor switch designed for ultra-low latency networking. It features 16 QSFP+ ports, each supporting either 40GbE or 4x10GbE modes. With 40GbE switching and a high-performance NX-OS operating system, the Cisco N3K-C3016Q-40GE delivers line-rate Layer 2/3 performance and sub-microsecond latency for demanding financial services and high frequency trading environments.

Key capabilities include comprehensive L2/L3 features, virtual PortChannel (vPC) for redundancy, robust QoS and security, 64-way ECMP routing, POAP for automated provisioning, buffer monitoring, advanced diagnostics, and flexible hardware redundancy. The Cisco N3K-C3016Q-40GE runs on the NX-OS operating system, providing consistency and feature support across the Cisco Nexus product portfolio.

The Cisco N3K-C3016Q-40GE comes in both AC and DC powered versions with front-to-back or back-to-front airflow options. It can be managed through industry-standard interfaces like CLI, GUI, XML, SNMP, and integrates with data center management platforms. The switch meets key safety, emissions, and energy efficiency standards required for financial services deployments.

Quick Specifications

N3K-C3016Q-40GE Details and Highlights

Ultra-Low Latency Switching

The Cisco N3K-C3016Q-40GE delivers consistent sub-microsecond switching latency for supporting high performance financial applications. Line-rate forwarding up to 1.28 Tbps minimizes congestion even under full load.

Comprehensive L2/L3 Feature Set

The switch provides extensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 features including support for thousands of VLANs, STP enhancements, robust ACLs and QoS capabilities. Advanced routing protocols like OSPF, EIGRP, BGP are supported.

Network Virtualization and Efficiency

Technologies like vPC eliminate spanning tree limitations while port-channels, ECMP routing improve overall network utilization. The switch also supports VXLAN, VRF and other virtualization features.

Monitoring and Troubleshooting

The Cisco N3K-C3016Q-40GE offers multiple tools for monitoring network health, analyzing packets, diagnosing issues quickly and simplifying operations. These include Ethanalyzer, SPAN, ERSPAN, buffer monitoring, Smart Call Home, Python scripting, and more.

Automated Provisioning and Management

The switch supports zero-touch provisioning, XML/JSON APIs, Chef/Puppet integration for automation. Management options include CLI, GUI, SNMP, and integration with Cisco’s data center management platforms.

N3K-C3016Q-40GE Supported Products

Comparison to Similar Models

N3K-C3016Q-40GE Full Specifications

Supported Modules and Accessories

N3K-C3016Q-40GE Licensing

The Cisco N3K-C3016Q-40GE comes with a base feature set license. Advanced routing capabilities require additional licenses:

• N3K-BAS1K9 – Base License with L3 Features
• N3K-LAN1K9 – Full L3 Routing Protocols License
• NDB-FX-SWT-K9 – Tap Aggregation License for Nexus Data Broker

Installation and Deployment

• Designed for top-of-rack deployment in data centers
• Mounts in standard 19″ racks
• Supports multiple airflow direction options
• Cables attach to ports on the front
• Dual power supply bays on the rear
• 1U height allows high density

Compliance and Safety

The Cisco N3K-C3016Q-40GE complies with key standards including:

• UL 60950, EN 60950, IEC 60950 – Safety
• FCC Part 15, CISPR22 – Emissions
• EN55022, EN55024 – Immunity
• CE mark, RoHS compliant

Warranty and Support

• 1 year limited hardware warranty
• 90 day software support included
• Optional Cisco Smartnet services available

N3K-C3016Q-40GE End of Life Policy

• Hardware is typically supported for 5 years after the last ship date
• Minimum of 12 months advance End-of-Life notification
• More details at Cisco EOL Policy